When Zachary Beaver Came to Town

By: Kimberly Willis Holt

Narrated by: Will Patton

Nothing ever happens in Toby's small Texas town. Nothing much until this summer that's full of big changes.
It's tough for Toby when his mother leaves home to become a country singer. And Toby takes it hard when his best friend Cal's older brother goes off to fight in Vietnam. But now their sleepy town is about to get an even bigger jolt with the arrival of Zachary Beaver, billed as the fattest boy in the world. Toby is in for a summer unlike any other, a summer sure to change his life.©1999 Laurie Halse Anderson; (P)2000 Random House, Inc. Listening Library, an imprint of the Random House Audio Publishing Group

Critic reviews

“As in her first novel, My Louisiana Sky, Holt humanizes the outsider without sentimentality. . . . Holt reveals the freak in all of us, and the power of redemption.”
–Booklist, Starred

“In her down-to-earth, people-smart way, Holt offers a gift.”
–The Horn Book Magazine, Starred

Awesome audio book!

My family and I listened to this book while traveling, the kids stopped watching their movie to listen. We really enjoyed it, one that I have recommended over and over again!

Great story for adults, too

Terrific story with incredible narration by the wonderful Will Patton. In 1971 I was the same age as the main character and his best friend. This book reminded me of much of the feelings I had at that age.

love this book!! my class of 6th graders loves it

I teach 6th grade and we all love it! we have a copy for all 24 students. perfect match for 6th grade! love Kimberly willis holt!

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charming

I thought the book was charming, although the ending seemed a bit contrived. Overall,it's entertaining.